Retired FIFA-badged referee, Calistus Chukwudi Chukwujekwu, has revealed that Nigerian referees will soon have direct access to Video Assistant Referee (VAR) equipment, courtesy of a collaborative effort led by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
In an exclusive interview with Sports247, Chukwujekwu disclosed that VAR facilities located in Cote d’Ivoire will be transported to Nigeria to support the training and development of local match officials. This initiative, he said, is being driven by the current NFF administration under President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau.
“I am happy that the NFF is moving faster,” Chukwujekwu stated. “They are taking advantage, because CAF has provided in West Africa Zone B some equipment for VAR that’s located in Cote d’Ivoire, with which we can train referees. The NFF is considering moving that equipment to Nigeria using a van to facilitate the training of more VAR officials.”
The respected referees instructor also noted that FIFA has recommended a more cost-effective video support system to national federations, given the high cost of full VAR implementation.
“Nowadays, there is a video support system, and FIFA has instructed that every nation should get it. It’s true that VAR is expensive in terms of equipment, installation and maintenance, but the football video support is a new system that can be used with one monitor and a few cameras,” he explained.
Chukwujekwu emphasised that adopting such technology would enhance officiating standards and reduce controversial match decisions. He also pointed out a significant long-term benefit of VAR access: the integration of VAR knowledge into the criteria for selecting referees at various levels of Nigerian football competitions.
Looking back on his own officiating journey, the Onitsha-born veteran shared how he was introduced to refereeing by a volleyball coach during his seminary days and how he navigated multiple challenges to become one of Nigeria’s most respected referees.
Despite facing hostility at times, he affirmed that he has never regretted becoming a referee and remains committed to advancing the profession in Nigeria.
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